Non Traditional Construction

Many properties have been built using a variety of other construction methods. Lending terms vary depending on construction types and if a repair scheme, where appropriate, has been used. Where a property is of non traditional construction please contact your usual Service Centre with the following detals for further advice:

The name of the type of construction

Year built (if known)

Flat/terrace/semi or detached

Details of any repair scheme if appropriate and if the scheme applies to the whole block (e.g. the whole terrace/both semi's)

The exact construction name is important as lending terms may differ between different types and year built. For example our lending terms differ between Gregory, Gregory Drury System 3 and Gregory Housing. All three have different lending terms and it is important to ensure you give us the full and accurate name to avoid us giving inappropriate advice.

Solar Panels

We will lend on a security with an Airspace Lease providing it meets the minimum requirements documented in the CML Lenders' Handbook or where the panels are owned by the vendor. Other arrangements are not acceptable.

Duplex Properties

The word duplex can be used to denote several property types and the circumstances for each one are shown below:

It can refer to a specific structure type e.g. Duplex Foamed Slag.

Where there are two leasehold properties each covering two storeys in a block of four storeys. These types of property are maisonettes. However, in some developments they are referred to as duplex houses/maisonettes.

These buildings can also be known in their locality by the name of "Over and Under" properties. They were built up to four or five storeys high in steep hillside terrace form, on a similar arrangement to maisonettes, with each property having ground level access. Some involved back to back arrangements. Construction is normally of stone and quality of construction varies from poor to very good.

Essentially these properties are flying freeholds, and normally would not form an acceptable security for the Society. However, the Society will accept these Duplex properties provided the following procedures are strictly adhered to:

Prior to valuation, the conveyancer must confirm the property is in an area covered by the West Yorkshire Act 1980.

The valuer has strict criteria to judge the acceptability of Duplex properties

Japanese Knotweed

Properties with Japanese Knotweed growing within the vicinity are considered with caution and subject to the following terms:

If present within 7 metres of the property boundary, the applicant will be required to obtain a specialist report in respect of eradicating the plant, including an insurance backed 5 year warranty against re-appearance of the plant, and if necessary, repairs to the property and services will be required for the valuer to make a full assessment of the property's suitability.

If more than 7 metres from the property boundary, written confirmation is required from the applicant confirming that they are aware of the presence of this invasive plant and the adverse affects it could have on the property should it spread closer. It is recommended the applicant seeks their own independent professional advice regarding the risk this plant might impose.